Many work-related injuries are attributable to one-off incidents or workplace mishaps like a car crash, a fall or electrocution. But the workplace is characterized by all manner of hazards, and some of these hazards can take their toll on a worker’s body over time.
Injuries that develop due to repetitive motions or compromised posture are known as repetitive stress injuries (RSI). And just like one-off injuries, if you develop RSIs at work, you may be eligible for financial restitution by filing for workers’ comp benefits. These are three of the most common types of repetitive stress injuries that you can suffer as a result of work-related activities.
Bursitis
Bursitis is basically a fluid-filled swelling that develops around the elbow, shoulder, knee and/or foot joints. Bursitis is common among workers whose jobs involve exerting excessive pressure on the joints. This RSI is characterized by swelling and redness around the affected areas, stiffness of the joints and excruciating pain. The injury is common among construction and factory workers, secretaries and carpenters.
Tendonitis
The inflammation of the tendons (a condition known as tendonitis) happens when the tendons are strained due to overuse or repetitive motion. Common symptoms of tendonitis include pain and rigidity of the affected tendons. Depending on a sufferer’s occupation, tendonitis generally affects the shoulders, elbows, knees, feet and wrists. Occupations at a greater risk of this RSI include carpenters, painters, cleaners and gardeners.
Carpal tunnel syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome happens when a worker compresses the median nerve that is located on the palm side of the hand. This can happen on one or both hands. Employees at a greater risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome include assembly line workers as well as those in the construction and manufacturing industries. It can also develop following prolonged use of computers.
A work-related repetitive stress injury can impact your movement, productivity and overall quality of life. If you believe your RSI is work-related, pursuing workers’ comp benefits could be a good idea.
